(Corrects spelling of Marilyn Monroe in final paragraph)

By Prithwish Ganguly

NEW DELHI, March 19 (Reuters Life!) - Hollywood actress Ashley Judd said on Monday her experience of emotional, physical and sexual harassment when she was young has helped her relate to abused women and understand their problems.

Judd, known for her Golden Globe-nominated role in "De-lovely" in 2004, is in India to promote women's rights for Population Services International, a Washington-based group focusing on the health of low-income populations.

"I was emotionally, physically and sexually harassed in my youth and I can say truthfully that I'm grateful for my past experiences as I can now understand the problems of women better," the 38-year-old actress told Reuters in an interview.

Judd, however, did not elaborate on her experiences.

The American actress visited an Indian women's charity in a New Delhi slum on Monday and spoke openly about abuse, sexually transmitted diseases and the empowerment of women through education and self-employment.

"Every time I reach out to another woman and try and do something for her, I heal that much more," said Judd, who was wearing a white T-shirt, yellow skirt and orange cap.

The actress said she was happy to see the passion of grassroot workers who were championing the cause of Indian women, but added that more had to be done to help protect women.

Judd said she wanted to reach out to Indian women who face humiliation not only at the hands of society but also at the hands of their parents, husbands and relatives.

According to a 2005 United Nations Population Fund report, more than two-thirds of married women in India between the ages 15 and 49 are victims of beating, rape or forced sex.

Dowry-related violence, where in-laws beat and abuse new wives for not bestowing enough gifts or money at the time of marriage, is also common in India.

In 2005, 6,787 dowry-related deaths were recorded from the country. But activists say the number of cases is much higher because most women are too afraid to go to the police, fearing stigmatisation.

"It is time that Indian women not only fight more for their own rights but also stand up to protect the rights of other women," Judd said.

The actress was also nominated for a Golden Globe for her portrayal of legendary actress Marilyn Monroe in the television series "Norma Jean and Marilyn" in 1996 and starred in films including "Kiss The Girls" and "Double Jeopardy".

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